Bass Fishing Lipless Crank Baits

      

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Lipless crankbaits are a very versatile lure that catches big bass almost throughout the seasons. You will see everyone using them for both keeper bass and the Bass Hogs. Their loud noise and vibrations will trigger reaction strikes from bass even in cold water or muddy water.

The companies that produce the lipless crankbaits are Lewis Rat-L-Trap, Strike King (Diamond Shad), Lucky Craft, Bass Pro, Berkley Frenzy, Cordell Super spot and Yo-Zuri Rattlin Vibe.

Lipless crankbaits come is different sizes ranging from 1/8 ounce to over 1 ounce. The most popular weights are the 1/4 ounce to 1/2 ounce.

Bass Tackle Box Tip: Which Color of Crankbait to Use?

Here is something out of my tackle box that might help you choose the right Color.  The Chrome with either the blue or black back is what I would recommend in slightly stained water with sunny skies; it will give them a lot of flash.

The red or orange what I call the Crawdad color is the best to use in muddy to stained water on sunny or cloudy days and have one tied on a crank bait rod in the spring too.

Firetiger or chartreuse, I would use in stained or muddy water on a cloudy day and I use these throughout the summer.

Crankbait Rod Size / Action and  Reel Gear Ratio:

The rod I recommend is a 7 foot crankbait rod with a medium to medium heavy action. The reason is they have a soft tip providing the added shock absorption needed when fighting lightly hook fish.

I want at least a reel that has a 6:1 gear ratio or even higher spooled with 14 to 20 pound Monofilament or My favorite line, Power Pro Braid.

Seasonal Crankbait Tips:

• Spring Time: Once the lakes warm to at least 50 degrees, bass will move toward the shallow coves and pockets around mud flats and points. Do not let the muddy water from a recent rain spook you from fishing these baits.

Remember I have told you after a spring rain the little creatures that get washed into the lake are a easy meal for the bass.

• Summer Time: The lipless crankbaits are the best hard baits to use in and around submerged grass. If you can find some matted grass, burn the lure through the narrow openings, or like I have mentioned in other articles, burn it right through the grass. If you get bogged up, rip it and 85% of the time you will get a strike.
  
  
• Fall Time: Bass prey heavily on the baitfish schools in the fall. This is the easy way to get your limit; throw just beyond the bait fish and bring the lipless crankbait through the middle of the bait fish. The bass will chase down their prey now, so use a fast retrieve and cover a lot of water.

If you see that the fish are up top, cast your lure holding the rod tip high. Give it about 12 fast cranks, and then let it die. The lure will slowly fall in the middle of the school of shad. See if you don't get the biggest Bass Hog with this technique.

• Winter Time: Get out on the lake on the days that are mild. You need at least 3 days of warm weather and put your attention on the rocks the large ones will hold heat and you will find the warmest water. Try and hit a calm sunny day.

This pattern is usually strongest in the afternoons when you can slip out from work. 

Keep the Hooks Wet!

Steve McGoldrick